Extent of bacterial contamination in a nonrebreathing inhalation sedation machine

In this study the extent of bacterial contamination in a nonrebreathing inhalation sedation unit was determined. Bacteriologic cultures of different areas of the Quantiflex MDM machine were obtained during successive week-long courses in conscious sedation at this institute. Results of the bacteriologic cultures revealed the microbial contamination of nasal hoods before and after attempted disinfection with alcohol. The other areas of the unit were shown to be free of bacteria. Since attempted alcohol disinfection of nasal hoods was found to be ineffective, autoclave sterilization is recommended.